Campgrounds near York, SC span from Lake Wylie to Kings Mountain, offering primitive and developed sites within a 25-mile radius. The region sits at the northern edge of South Carolina's Piedmont plateau, with elevations ranging from 500-1,700 feet. Winter camping conditions typically remain mild with occasional freezing nights from December through February, while thunderstorms occur frequently during summer afternoons.
What to do
Disc golf at Chester State Park: The 18-hole professional disc golf course winds through wooded areas around the lake. "There is an amazing seating area near the fishing dock, with multiple hanging bench swings, communal fire pits and a great view of the lake. There was a nice trail around the lake, peddle boat rentals, and a world class frisbee golf course," notes David S. about Chester State Park Campground.
Historical exploration at Kings Mountain: Visit the Revolutionary War battlefield site adjacent to Kings Mountain State Park. "Tons to do, including hikes and history. Make sure to go across the street to the Kings Mountain Military site. Better yet, plan your stay when they are doing an event," recommends Don H. about Kings Mountain State Park.
Hiking at McDowell Nature Preserve: The preserve offers multiple trail systems accessible directly from campsites. "So awesome to have hiking trails that lead right out of the campground," notes Kathy L. One camper elaborated: "Nice open spaces with shade. No views to speak of but several short trails and nice areas around Lake Wylie. Clean facilities and secured gate with easy access after hours for paid campers."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded camping spots with natural screening. At McDowell Nature Preserve, one camper described, "Great, long wooded site! Reasonably priced. Gated. Great restrooms and showers." The preserve's park-like setting provides a sense of seclusion despite proximity to Charlotte.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses consistently receive positive reviews across multiple campgrounds. At McDowell Nature Preserve, Ryan B. mentions, "CLEAN RESTROOMS and showers with hot water, power even at the Tent sites, super nice staff, and priced right. Also, the camp was patrolled regularly by the police and I felt very safe."
Lake access: Several campgrounds provide convenient lake access for fishing, boating, and relaxation. At Chester State Park, a camper noted, "All 25 of the sites are on mostly level ground. The lake from the campground has a fairly new access via a ADA compliant walkway with lighting leading to swings, benches and Adirondack chairs surrounding a rock fire pit."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have sites that require significant leveling. At Kings Mountain State Park, a reviewer cautioned, "Many camping sites are very much in need of leveling. Sites slope from left to right, front to back, and some slope in both ways." Another camper mentioned, "Lots of sites could use some attention. Tangled tree roots, water ruts. Muddy when it rains."
Seasonal availability: While most campgrounds remain open year-round, facility maintenance can affect availability. At Ebenezer Park Campground, one camper noted, "We spent a weekend here last month. Park itself has considerable construction going on with no water access. However the campground was open and sites are nice and spacious."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance bookings, especially for weekend stays during spring and summer. Copperhead Island offers an unusual alternative: "You can, in fact, reserve the whole island for group camping if you like! I hear that Lake Wylie is really busy in summer, a lot of boat and day use traffic, but the lake was quiet in October."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort, a camper mentioned, "Private but great for families and bike ridding. Private pool game room. Laundry and camp store." The resort's proximity to the Carowinds amusement park provides additional entertainment options.
Swimming options: Not all lakes permit swimming, so check rules before planning water activities. At Chester State Park, a camper noted, "There is fishing, kayaks and canoes at the boat dock for rent and to our children's disappointment no swimming in the lake."
Security considerations: Gated campgrounds provide additional safety for families with children. Ryan B. remarked about McDowell Nature Preserve: "The camp was patrolled regularly by the police and I felt very safe. I can't say enough good things here."
Tips from RVers
Site selection at Kings Mountain: Choose your site carefully as some designated RV sites may be smaller than expected. One camper advised, "Some sites are listed as RV sites but are half as large as they need to be to accommodate a medium size RV. If that wasn't enough, sites are very close to each other and there are almost no plants other than tall trees to offer any privacy."
Access roads and maneuverability: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads for larger rigs. At Iron City Campground, a camper reported, "They have some seasonal sites and a lot of other sites. There are some new sites along the pond on the lower level. They also had buddy sites, perfect for a 2+ campers to gather as a group."
Hookup placement: Utilities at some sites may be inconveniently located. One camper at Kings Mountain State Park noted, "The electric and water are in odd spots on each site. Luckily we were on one of the rare fairly level sites. The road into the campground is narrow, hilly and windy. We were able to do it in our 32 foot class A, but luckily no one was coming the other direction."
